Experts Share Tips as we Enter Fire Season in Wittmann

Fire season is right around the corner and some parts of the valley are already seeing early fire activity due to drought conditions. According to a March 22nd news release from the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, 82% of all fires last year were human-caused and “all likely avoidable if people paid more attention.” How can we protect our beautiful Wittmann from the destruction and havoc of fire? We brought those exact questions to Fire, Community Risk, and Emergency Management experts throughout the state and Maricopa County.

“Many fires are started by folks using equipment or target shooting in restricted areas that sent sparks flying into dry fuel beds,” said John Truett, a Fire Management Officer for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.

“One of the biggest concerns we have in Wittmann and because of the amount of fuel on the ground is target shooting, target shooting is not allowed on state land at any time of the year regardless of fire restrictions,” said Tiffany Davila, a Public Affairs Officer for the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management. “Last year, we did have some fires start in the Wittmann area because of target shooting,” Tiffany said.

“Long and short term drought, dry vegetation, and unpredictable fire behavior, along with increased human activity, combine for a potentially active fire year,” according to an April 12th news release from the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management.

“Although many in Maricopa County live in cities or towns, others live adjacent to forests, parks, or native desert areas. When urban development meets undeveloped outdoor areas, this creates an environment where fire can move readily between structures and vegetation,” said Stephanie Miller with Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management. “These fires within the Wildland Urban Interface are both dangerous and costly to fight,” Stephanie said.

“The lingering effects of a wildfire may include soil erosion, landslides, and reduced food for the local animal population,” Stephanie added.

In Wittmann, the concerns are continuous fuel bed which is the thought of if a fire were to start in the dry grass or brush it will take off quickly and spread rapidly due to the amount of fuel. So, what can residents do to protect our Wittmann? All three of our experts recommended tips residents can take to limit the risk to the community and property.

“Residents need to take the time to create defensible space and remove dead fuel, remove debris from rooftops and gutters and remove flammable material away from the exterior of the home,” Tiffany Davila said.

“Check the weather before burning or using equipment that may throw sparks, and always have a water source and shovel nearby,” Davila continued.

“Stay informed on current and predicted conditions in your community, and when you are enjoying the outdoors,” said Stephanie Miller

“During any incident that may require you to evacuate, we want you to remember READY, SET, GO for Evacuations,” said Stephanie Miller with Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management.

READY: Long before an emergency starts, you want to be prepared. Being READY means that you have an emergency plan created and a Go Bag packed.

SET: When the emergency starts, know there is significant danger in your area. You need to be prepared to evacuate the area. Being SET means that you put your Go Bag by the door, gather your family and pets, including livestock, and be poised to leave as soon as possible. Stay aware of the latest news and information from public safety and public health officials.

GO: Once you receive a notification to evacuate, GO as soon as possible. Take your pets and livestock with you. Follow instructions from emergency personnel, stay on designated evacuation routes and avoid closed areas. Remember the 5 P’s of evacuations:

• People/Pets including livestock and supplies.
• Prescriptions including medications, medical equipment, power cords, and batteries.
• Papers including important documents and contact information are written down.
• Personal needs including food, water, toiletries, cash, first aid kit, and supplies for children and those with access and functional needs.
• Priceless items including photos and irreplaceable items.

Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management reminds all residents to report all wildfires to 9-1-1.

“Have an evacuation plan prepared, including important paperwork, medications, and necessities in the event you must leave quickly,” Eric Kriwer, the Fire Marshal for the Arizona Fire and Medical Authority shared.

“Remove combustibles and dry vegetation to create 30-foot defensible space around your home, this will also create a safe work area for firefighters,” Kriwer shared.

The National Fire Protection Association recommends keeping lawns mowed and hydrated. Dry grasses and shrubs are easily ignited by wildfires.

A resident of Wittmann can request a home assessment free of charge according to Eric Kriwer, the Fire Marshal for the Arizona Fire and Medical Authority. Residents who would like a free home assessment can call 623-544-5400 and ask for the Community Risk Management Division to come out and assess their home.

More Safety and Preparedness Tips can be found on the Arizona Fire and Medical Authority’s website.

Information about how you can be READY, SET, GO visit the Arizona Emergency Information Network.

Information regarding state land fire restrictions can be found on the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management’s website.

Information about the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management and to download the Ready Maricopa App can be found on the department’s website.

Subscribe to Emergency Text Alerts from Wittmann, AZ Emergency Alerts now by clicking here.

Remember: Preparedness is Year-Round